How to pick the right air conditioner?

Having an air conditioner at home isn’t just a luxurious amenity, but it is somewhat becoming necessary. Since it’s summer, we badly need an AC to keep us comfortable and safe from the scorching weather. But, of course, when looking for anything, whether it is a small or big investment, you need to choose the one that’s right for you. So if you are planning to buy one, here are the factors to consider on choosing the right air conditioner.

Table of Contents

Size of the room

One of the most important factors when choosing your air conditioning unit is the sizing of the room. In addition, it is a must to choose an air conditioner with the correct cooling output or capacity for space. Check out the guide to match aircon horsepower (HP) depending on the room size below.

Keep in mind that getting an air conditioning unit that is the wrong capacity for the size of the room may result in poor performance and increase energy use and operating costs. Based on Meralco Power Lab tests 15, an aircon that’s not the right size for your room can cost you an extra PHP 965USD 16INR 1,394EUR 16CNY 120 per month.

Additionally, natural light, insulation, ceiling height, and roof type will all play a role in determining the correct capacity for an air conditioner. Due to this, it’s also recommended to have a qualified contractor or installer that could inform you what type of unit and size will be best suited for your home.

Split or Window

Another relevant consideration when buying an air conditioner is whether you want a split-type or window-type unit. Certainly, this would depend on your personal preference.

The split and window types are two differently sized items. A split air conditioner is divided into two separate units: the indoor unit (IDU) and the outdoor unit (ODU). The indoor unit consists of the evaporator and blower fan responsible for making the cold air and distributing it to the room, while the outdoor unit has the condenser and compressor for pumping and cooling the refrigerant gas used in the cooling process.

On the other hand, the window-type air conditioner comes only with a single cube-shaped unit. Thus, this type’s indoor and outdoor parts are merged into one unit.

Check out their advantages below.

• Split-type

– No need for a rectangular hole in the wall
– Less noise

• Window-type

– Easier to install
– Portable
– More affordable
– Lower maintenance cost

Installation

As the window-type AC is packaged into one unit, it is easier to install than a split-type AC. The split type has a more complicated installation procedure that would require help from a professional, so expect to pay an installation fee.

Furthermore, it is not recommended to do the installation on your own. Also, the warranty might be voided if you’ll have your split-type aircon installed by someone other than an HVAC installer certified by the brand.

Cost

Considering your budget is also an essential factor. This is to determine how much you are willing to spend on a cooling unit.

For the pricing department, the window-type AC is more affordable than the split-type. Therefore, choosing the window-type AC over the split-type is perfect for those who are looking for a unit with less cost.

Noise

As mentioned, the compressor (ODU) of a split-type AC is situated outside. This means it is a lot more quiet compared to the window-type AC.

Since the window-type AC’s outdoor part is hanging at the opposite side of the room, the vibrations caused by the compressor will reverberate throughout the unit and, consequently, be louder than a split-type model.

Maintenance

With the window-type air conditioner’s compact design, they are easier to maintain than split-type ACs.

Split-type models have complex builds; therefore, it is recommended to seek an HVAC technician’s assistance to maintain the unit. Unfortunately, this also makes its maintenance cost higher compared to window-type units.

Nonetheless, note that it is always best to have your unit serviced by an HVAC technician despite its type.

Energy efficiency

If you are thinking of energy conservation and saving money on the electricity bill, you should choose an AC unit that keeps your expenses low. High-efficiency units may cost more to buy but can eventually pay for themselves over a few years with their lower running costs.

In addition, it is also recommended to choose an AC with inverter technology. The reason behind this is that an inverter air conditioning system can alter its power output to maintain precise room temperature. It reaches your ideal temperature by increasing its compressor operating frequency. Besides, a mechanism inside will control the compressor motor speed to maintain a certain temperature. Thus, it adjusts the compressor rotation speed to maintain that temperature without consuming too much power when that temperature has been achieved. Therefore, it combines high power and high efficiency, keeping your home at your desired temperature.

Moreover, another feature to look out for in air conditioners is an energy-saving setting. This means that the unit will turn off the compressor and the fan once your space has cooled off to conserve energy.

The verdict

To choose the right air conditioner for your home, you will need to consider the abovementioned factors. Hence, the decision would mainly depend on your preference! Make sure you’ll also choose the one that fits your room size and budget while at the same time considering the cost in the long run. After all, an AC is one significant investment that should at least deliver comfort, especially during times we need it most, ideally for a long period of time.

Sources: Meralco, Aircon Market, Home Air Guides